Gortyna archaeological site
Now closed
Gortyna, located on Crete's Mesara Plain, was a major ancient city second only to Knossos. Inhabited since the Neolithic period (7000 BC), it flourished during the Bronze Age under Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations. By the Archaic and Classical periods, Gortyna was a powerful city-state, sometimes allied with, sometimes rivaling, Knossos. In 67 BC, Romans conquered Crete, making Gortyna capital of the province of Crete and Cyrenaica. The city thrived under Roman rule, with new infrastructure like the Praetorium, amphitheater, and Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods.
A key discovery is the Gortyn code, the oldest known complete ancient Greek law, offering insights into 5th century BC social, economic, and legal structures. Gortyna embraced Christianity during the Byzantine era, evidenced by the Basilica of Saint Titus. The Arab conquest in the 9th century AD led to its decline. Today, Gortyna is a major archaeological site with ongoing excavations. Key sites include the Praetorium, Odeon (housing the Gortyn code inscription), amphitheater, Pythion Theater, Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods, Basilica of Saint Titus, and Acropolis.
Acropolis Smari
The Acropolis of Smari, located on the peak of Prophet Elias near Smari, Crete, is an archaeological site with ruins dating back to the Minoan period (1800 BC to 630 BC). The site features a sanctuary dedicated to Athena Ergani, with ceramic plaques depicting the goddess considered the oldest representations of Athena in Crete. The Acropolis is enclosed by a strong defensive wall and contains settlements, buildings, and terraces for cultivation. Excavations have revealed structures like Megaron A, Megaron B, and Megaron Δ, each with unique features. The walls surrounding the hilltop are the most significant structures, built with large limestone blocks and smaller rectangular stones.
Afrati, Viannos
Afrati is a traditional village in Viannos, Crete, situated 45 km southeast of Heraklion at an altitude of 480 meters. The village features traditional architecture, and residents are primarily involved in olive and grape cultivation. The origin of the village's name is uncertain, with possible links to the Greek word for "foam," the ancient city of Arcadia, or the Latin word for "monk."
The area around Afrati has been inhabited since ancient times. The nearby hill of Prophitis Ilias was home to the ancient city of Arcadia, which minted its own coins and later became a bishop's seat. Archaeological excavations have revealed ancient houses, a necropolis, and a 7th-century BC oinochoe (wine jug). Afrati first appears in historical records in the 1881 Turkish census as "Frati." The village features the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior and offers access to the ruins of Arcadia.
Agia Paraskevi in Aitania
Agia Paraskevi, a 14th-century Byzantine church near Aitania village in Crete, is adorned with well-preserved frescoes depicting saints like Vlasios, Titus, and John the Theologian, alongside biblical scenes. The church, accessed via a steep dirt road, features a single room and a sanctuary with unique motifs like the Melismos and Christ as the Great High Priest. Frescoes on the north and south walls portray various saints, including military saints, while the arch showcases scenes from the Dodekaorton. Local tradition recounts miraculous healing associated with the church, with a ritual involving holy water from a now-dried spring. Restored in 2003, the church's exterior is simple, with a buttress and a stone table used for bread blessing during festivals.
Agios Georgios Xifoforos
Agios Georgios Xifoforos, a mid-13th-century Byzantine church located near Apodoulou in Crete's Amari region, boasts well-preserved frescoes and a single-aisled, barrel-vaulted architecture. Dedicated to Saint George (Xifoforos), the church exemplifies Byzantine art and religious traditions. Its frescoes offer valuable insights into the cultural and artistic practices of the era. The church's history, potentially linked to a monastery, remains partially unclear. Today, it serves as a place of worship and pilgrimage, open to visitors interested in Byzantine architecture and religious art.
Agios Georgios, Lasithi plateau
Agios Georgios, located on the Lasithi Plateau in Crete, at an altitude of 837 meters, was formed by the merging of two settlements, Kato Chorio and Pano Chorio. During the Venetian period, the Lasithi Plateau was repopulated for agricultural production after a period of depopulation due to rebellions. Settlers lived in temporary settlements called "metochia," which eventually evolved into villages like Agios Georgios. The village participated in Cretan revolts against Ottoman rule. Agios Georgios reached its peak population in 1951 with 1312 inhabitants but has experienced population decline since the 1970s. Landmarks include the Church of Agios Georgios, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, the Byzantine Church of Agios Georgios Augousti, the Church of Agia Pelagia, the Folklore Museum, and the Eleftherios Venizelos Collection. The European long-distance path E4 passes through Agios Georgios.
Agios Myronas, Heraklion
Agios Myronas, a picturesque village in the Heraklion region of Crete, boasts a rich history dating back to the Minoan era. The area was once home to the ancient city of Raikos, and archaeological remnants from this period, along with artifacts from the Roman era, are now housed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. The village, nestled on two hilltops at an altitude of 450 meters, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Named after Saint Myron, a 4th-century Bishop of Crete who was born in ancient Raikos, Agios Myronas has been a site of resistance throughout history, with villagers actively participating in uprisings against Ottoman rule and the Axis occupation during World War II.
Today, the village thrives as a blend of old and new, with traditional architecture alongside modern amenities. Its approximately 720 residents are primarily engaged in agriculture and livestock farming, particularly renowned for their grapes and wine production. Agios Myronas features a primary school, a secondary school, a high school, a police station, a post office, and a regional medical center, ensuring a good quality of life for its inhabitants. The imposing cathedral of Agios Myronas, housing the saint's tomb and relics, is a significant landmark, and the annual festival on August 8th celebrates Saint Myron's feast day.
Agios Nikolaos, Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos, a coastal town in Crete, sits on the ancient site of Lato pros Kamara, once the seaport of the Dorian city Lato Etera. In the 13th century, the Venetians built the Mirabello fortress there, which was later destroyed and rebuilt several times. Today, Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the Lasithi region and a popular tourist spot. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Venetian fortress, relax by Lake Voulismeni, and visit nearby attractions like Spinalonga, a fortified island with a fascinating history as a leper colony. The town also features beautiful parks, interesting sculptures, and charming squares.
Agios Pavlos Monastery near Paranymfoi
The Agios Pavlos Monastery is a Venetian-era ruin near Paranymfoi, Crete. Located in the Asterousia Mountains, it once served as a hermitage and monastery. The site features a single-aisled basilica church with traces of frescoes, a carved doorway, and ruins of monks' cells. The monastery, linked to the scholar Iosif Filagris, flourished during the Venetian period but was abandoned in the 20th century. The surrounding area shows signs of inhabitation since antiquity, including possible evidence of an ancient sanctuary. The monastery is accessible by a dirt road from Paranymfoi and is situated above the Porofarago gorge, near the hiking trail to Tries Ekklisies.
Aitania, Chersonissos
Aitania, a village in Heraklion, Crete, is 20 km from Heraklion. Its name is believed to be a corruption of the ancient city of Diatonion. Aitania is recorded in a Venetian document from 1212 as "Icania." The Venetian census of 1583 lists it as "Itagnia Cato" with 112 inhabitants and "Itagnia Apano" with 85 inhabitants. On October 12, 1856, a major earthquake with a magnitude of 8.2 struck Crete, causing significant damage and resulting in the death of 40 people in Aitania. In 1954, archaeologist N. Platon excavated a small, cave-like carved tomb west of Aitania at a site called "Fonias." The tomb contained approximately thirty Geometric period vessels. The village square is a central gathering point for residents and visitors, with traditional cafes. The Cultural Association of Aitania organizes a Cretan feast in the square every year on August 15th.
Alagni, Archanes - Asterousia
Alagni, a village 25 kilometers from Heraklion, Crete, has a history rooted in the Minoan civilization. The village's name is believed to be derived from the nymph Alagonia, and ruins of a temple dedicated to her are said to be found on Tholi hill. Alagni is near the Minoan palace of Galatas, built around 1700-1600 BC. The village itself is home to a Minoan farmhouse and appears in historical records as early as 1583.
Alagni has several notable churches: Agios Vlassis, Sotira, Agios Georgios, Panagia, Panagia of Rouma, and Agioi Apostoloi. The latter, built in the 15th-16th century, bears the emblem of the Venetian Cornaro family.
Other significant landmarks include the deserted settlement of Rouma and Koursamos, where a cluster of winepresses dating back to the 16th-17th centuries exists. The Tholi Fortress, a small fortress from the late Venetian period (16th-17th century), is located on a hilltop west of Alagni.
The village's economy has traditionally centered around agriculture, particularly the cultivation of grapes and olives for wine and oil production.
Amigdalos, Archanes - Asterousia
Amigdalos (Αμύγδαλος) is a small mountainous village in the Municipality of Archanes-Asterousia in the Heraklion Regional Unit, Crete, Greece. It is located at an altitude of 595 meters, approximately 50 km south of Heraklion and 37 km south of Epano Archanes. The village was first officially recognized as a settlement in 1925. The name "Amigdalos" means "almond tree" in Greek, likely named after the abundance of wild almond trees in the surrounding region. Amigdalos has experienced a steady population decline throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.
Amiras, Viannos
Amiras, a small village nestled on the southern slopes of Mount Dikti in Crete, boasts a rich history dating back to the Arab occupation of Crete (824-961 AD). Its name, derived from the Arabic word for "ruler," suggests it may have been the site of an Arab amir's residence. The village is tragically known for the 1943 massacre of 117 male residents by Nazi forces, a somber event commemorated by an annual memorial service. Today, Amiras maintains an agricultural economy, cultivating early vegetables and producing olive oil. Its Cultural, Athletic, and Educational Association actively contributes to social events and cultural projects, enriching the community's vibrant spirit. Despite its tragic past, Amiras remains a testament to resilience and the enduring power of community.
Ancient Lato
Now closed
Lato, an ancient city in Crete, reached its peak after the Dorian arrival. Named after the goddess Leto, Lato was strategically located on a hilltop overlooking the Mirabello Gulf. The city was heavily fortified, with strong walls, gates, and towers. Lato was one of the most powerful city-states in ancient Crete, with a well-organized political structure and a thriving economy. The city's port, Lato pros Kamara, facilitated trade and contributed to its growth. The archaeological site of Lato features well-preserved remains, including the agora, prytaneion, theater, temples, and private houses. Lato was eventually abandoned in the Roman era but was rediscovered in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of an ancient Cretan city. Lato was the birthplace of Nearchus, a famous admiral who served under Alexander the Great.
Chandras, Siteia
Chandras, a village in the Siteia municipality of Lasithi, Crete, sits at 580 meters above sea level on the Armenohandrades plateau. Likely founded during Arab rule, its name may derive from the Arabic word for "green". The village was recorded in a 1577 census as Ghandra and in a 1583 census as Candra with 403 inhabitants.
The old village center, "Mesochoria", houses the churches of Agios Dimitrios and the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Remnants of an Ottoman hammam can be found there, along with a Renaissance fountain and Venetian-influenced buildings. A folklore museum is also present in the village. The church of Agios Haralambos, with its neoclassical bell tower, stands in the northern part of the settlement. Nearby, the abandoned medieval village of Voila preserves monuments from the Venetian and Ottoman periods.
Chromonastiri, Rethymno
Chromonastiri is a traditional Cretan village with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It's located 11 kilometers southeast of Rethymno, near Mount Vrysinas. The village is known for its Venetian-era architecture, particularly the restored Villa Claudio, now home to the Chromonastiri Military Museum.
Chromonastiri also boasts several significant Byzantine churches, including the 11th-century Church of Panagia Kera with its unique architectural features and surviving frescoes. The Church of Agios Eftychios at Perdiki Metochi is another notable Byzantine church, featuring impressive frescoes and a distinct folk art style.
The village square houses the renovated Prinari olive mill, now an educational center showcasing the history of olive oil production and traditional Cretan life. Chromonastiri is a designated traditional settlement, offering visitors a glimpse into Crete's cultural heritage through its architecture, religious sites, and historical landmarks.
Dafnes, Heraklion
Dafnes, a village in Heraklion, Crete, is known for its wine and olive oil production since the 13th century.
Dafnes is derived from the laurel plant (δάφνη - dafni).
The village is believed to have been founded by residents of another village named Skilochorio. Dafnes and Skilochorio are mentioned in documents from the 13th century.
Dafnes is known for its production of raisins, grapes, wine (using the Liatiko grape variety), and olive oil. The village has four wineries.
The village square hosts the annual Dafnes Wine Festival, usually held in the first ten days of July.
Episkopi, Chersonissos
Episkopi, a village near Heraklion, Crete, has a long history dating back to the Minoan era. The village's name, meaning "bishopric", reflects its role as the seat of the Bishop of Hersonissos after the Byzantine era. It has numerous Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches, including the 11th-century Panagia Kera-Limniotissa and the 14th-century Agios Ioannis with Venetian-era frescoes. Episkopi also has a war museum and a municipal park.
Etia, Sitia
Etia, located in the Armeni municipality in eastern Crete, is an uninhabited village with a rich history dating back to the Byzantine era. Known for its well-preserved Venetian mansion, the De Mezzo, Etia was once a major settlement. The village also features the churches of Agia Aikaterini and Agios Ioannis, both bearing traces of Byzantine wall paintings. The De Mezzo mansion, a significant example of Venetian architecture, has undergone extensive restoration. Etia, though deserted, remains a protected traditional settlement and a testament to Crete's diverse heritage.
Festos (Phaistos)
8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Phaistos, a significant Minoan city in Crete, second in importance to Knossos, located in the Messara Plain. It dates back to 4000 BCE with a palace built in 1900-1700 BCE. The city was destroyed by an earthquake around 1700 BCE and rebuilt with a larger palace. Phaistos had connections with Knossos, Hagia Triada, and Gortyn. Important findings include the Phaistos Disk, Kamares Ware, and architectural remains. After a decline, Phaistos was reoccupied in the Hellenistic period (c. 323-67 BCE) until conquered by Gortyn.
Fournou Koryfi
Fournou Korifi, an Early Minoan settlement near Myrtos village in Crete, dating back to the mid-3rd millennium BCE, provides valuable insights into the Minoan civilization. The settlement, with approximately 90 rooms during its peak, features the "Myrtos Goddess" figurine and evidence of workshops and diverse economic activities. Archaeologists, including Peter Warren, have studied the site's social structures, with interpretations ranging from communal living to a more complex hierarchy. The South House offers a glimpse into domestic life with its weaving room and kitchen. Fournou Korifi's well-preserved remains contribute to our understanding of Early Minoan architecture, social organization, and daily life.
Galia, Phaistos
Galia, a Greek village in the Municipality of Phaistos, Heraklion, Crete, has a history rooted in the Venetian era, with its name derived from the Greek word for "milk." Recorded in 1577, it faced depopulation during the Turko-Egyptian rule (1834), with residents returning around 1870. After 1920, people from Vorizia boosted its population, peaking at 1,029 in 1961. The 2011 census showed 916 residents. Located on the Messara plain's northern edge, 5 km northwest of Moires and 57.3 km from Heraklion, its strategic position contributed to its agricultural prosperity. Today, it's known for vegetable cultivation, olives, livestock, and beekeeping. Amenities include shops, cafes, tavernas, a kindergarten, a primary school, and the central church of Agios Georgios.
Gerokampos Tholos Tomb
The Lebena Gerokampos Tholos Tomb is an Early Minoan I-II (c. 3100-2600 BCE) archaeological site located near Lentas, on the southern coast of Crete, close to the ancient Minoan settlement of Lebena. The tomb, with an interior diameter of approximately 5 meters, is typical of tholos tombs, with a circular chamber built of large stones and a corbelled vault. The tomb also features several smaller chambers or annexes, which were added later. These annexes, along with the main tholos, served as spaces for burial and ritual activities. A large quantity of pottery, including pyxides, tankards, cups, and bowls, was found in the tomb. The tomb contained the skeletal remains of numerous individuals, providing evidence of collective burial practices. Other significant finds from the tomb include jewelry, tools, and figurines.
Giouchtas Minoan Peak Sanctuary
The Giouchtas Minoan Peak Sanctuary, located on the mountain of Giouchtas near Epano Archanes in Crete, is an archaeological site dating back to the Early Bronze Age. The site is associated with Minoan religion and offers insights into the ritual practices and beliefs of the Minoan civilization. Archaeological investigations have revealed structures, including a temenos, and artifacts like clay figurines and pottery fragments. The sanctuary's location on a mountain peak is characteristic of Minoan peak sanctuaries, chosen for its association with the divine realm and visibility. The Giouchtas sanctuary is located near Knossos and Archanes, suggesting it played an important role in the religious and social life of the Minoan people.
Goulediana, Rethymno
Goulediana, a small mountain village nestled in the Rethymno regional unit of Crete, Greece, presents a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Perched at an altitude of 540 meters in a small valley, this quaint village is located 18 kilometers from the city of Rethymno.
Though absent from Venetian censuses, Goulediana is believed to have existed as a metochi, a dependency of a monastery. The village's history stretches back to the Archaic period, as evidenced by the Onithi archaeological site southeast of the village. This site features remnants of a fortified acropolis, houses, and a monumental fountain dating to the 7th-6th century BC. Further historical significance is found in the Early Christian basilica at Kera Onithi, dating to the 5th century AD. Goulediana also boasts several churches of note, including the 1787 Agia Kyriaki with its sanctuary housed within a cave, Agia Varvara, and the Genethlio tis Theotokou. The wider Goulediana area encompasses churches such as the Panagia Kera, Zoodochos Pigi, Koimisis tis Theotokou, Agios Antonios (cave), and Metamorphosis tou Sotira. Despite its rich historical tapestry, Goulediana has experienced a declining population in recent years.
Hierapytna
Hierapytna, located on the southern coast of Crete, was founded in the Geometric period (c. 9th century BC). The city was a major hub for trade and commerce in ancient times and played a significant role in the island's political and military affairs. Hierapytna flourished during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. It became part of the Byzantine Empire after the division of the Roman Empire. Following the Arab conquest of Crete in the 9th century, Hierapytna was abandoned. Modern archaeological investigations have revealed a wealth of information about the city, including its city walls, agora, temple, theater, and private houses.
Kainourgio Chorio, Chersonissos
Kainourgio Chorio, a historic village in Crete, boasts a rich history dating back to the Second Byzantine period. Despite its name, meaning "New Village," it has a long and storied past evident in its well-preserved landmarks. The village, located in the Municipality of Hersonissos, is nestled at an altitude of 220 meters. Kainourgio Chorio is home to the Foscolo Tower, a Venetian-era fortified residence that later underwent modifications during the Ottoman occupation. The village also houses the Church of Panagia and Agia Paraskevi, adorned with surviving fragments of frescoes from the Venetian period. The Venetian wine presses, some of the largest in Crete, stand as a testament to the region's historical wine production. The Wine Museum, donated by Ioannis Papadakis, offers a glimpse into the region's winemaking heritage, showcasing preserved wine production facilities and a collection of wines.
Kalamaki
Kalamaki Beach, located on Crete's south coast near Kamilari, is a long stretch of golden sand facing Messara Gulf and Paximadia islets. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, the beach offers both organized areas with sunbeds and umbrellas, and secluded natural spots. However, the seabed composition can create strong winds, waves, and currents, requiring caution for young children and weak swimmers. While Kalamaki caters to various preferences, the southeast end transitions into the naturist-friendly Kommos Beach.
Kalami, Viannos
Kalami, a historic village in Crete, strategically located in the semi-mountainous area of the Viannos municipality. Built during the Venetian or Ottoman period, it offered protection against raids and pirate attacks. Once a thriving community, Kalami was an important commercial center with a customs office, warehouses, and various professions. The village's economy was based on agriculture, with residents cultivating olive trees, cereals, fruit trees, and carob trees. After 1960, the focus shifted to early vegetables and bananas. Kalami also served as the main winter residence, with people moving to lower-lying "metochia" in the summer for farming. Today, Kalami is largely deserted, with most residents relocating to coastal settlements.
Kamilari Roman graveyard
The Roman Tombs of Kamilari, located in southern Crete, are an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the island's history during the Roman period. Discovered in 2010, the tombs are situated at the foot of Evgora Hill, close to Metochi Kamiliariou. The area was known locally as "Xospilios," possibly derived from the Greek word for cave ("spilaio"). The tombs are estimated to have been constructed around 50 AD, based on discovered coins, and provide valuable insights into Roman burial practices. The site is under the supervision of the Archaeological Service.
Kamilari, Phaistos
Kamilari is a village in the Asterousia mountains of Crete. Its history dates back to the Minoan era. The village's name, first recorded in 1370, is likely derived from the Byzantine family name "Kamelaris" or the term "Hamilon Oros," meaning "Low Mountain."
Kamilari is archaeologically significant, with nearby sites like the Minoan palace of Phaistos and the Kamilari Tholos Tomb. The discovery of a bothros containing terracotta figures from the Geometric period confirms the area's long history of human presence.
The village's Cultural Association works to preserve local traditions and customs. Kamilari offers a unique experience for visitors to Crete.
Kastelli (Tsifout Kastelli), Gortyna
Kastelli, also known as Tsifout Kastelli (Jewish Castle), is a village in Ano Akria, Heraklion, Crete. It is 7 km north of Asimi and 44 km from Heraklion, at an altitude of 448 meters. The village, historically linked to the 13th-century Castel Bonifacio, is mentioned in documents from 1375 and 1583. Residents mainly engage in olive cultivation and livestock farming. Points of interest include the ruins of Castel Bonifacio and the Church of Constantine and Helen, which celebrates its feast day on May 21st. The village has seen a steady population with recorded numbers from 1881, 1900, 1928, 1981, 1991, 2001, 2011, and 2021.
Kato Symi, Viannos
Kato Symi is a village nestled in a fertile valley within the Viannos municipality, Heraklion, Crete. The village is surrounded by a mountainous area with the largest forest cover in the region, including the Symi forest, and the Blavopotamos river flows through it. Known for its natural beauty, the valley boasts numerous fruit trees and caves like Zymbraga Spiliaria and Kissospilios. Kato Symi is also rich in history, with significant Minoan-era archaeological finds, particularly the neo-palatial sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite at Krya Vrysi, dating back to 2,000 BC. The village has several notable churches, including the Church of the Panagia Galatoktismeni and Nistikoktismeni, built in 1385, and the Church of Agios Georgios with frescoes from the mid-15th century. Kato Symi has a long history, mentioned in the 1583 census as "Simi Catto." It was a site of resistance during the Ottoman period and World War II, where residents bravely fought against German forces. The village's population has declined over the years, but its historical significance and natural beauty remain.
Kato Viannos, Viannos
Kato Viannos, located in the foothills of Mount Dikti on the island of Crete, is a historic village with a history dating back to at least 1583. The village is home to several notable churches, including the Church of Agios Georgios and the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary. During World War II, the village and its residents suffered greatly under Nazi occupation, with mass executions and the destruction of homes. Despite this tragic history, Kato Viannos remains a resilient community with a rich cultural heritage.
Klima, Phaistos
Klima village, in Crete's Amari Valley, has a history dating back to the Venetian period. Located 70 kilometers from Heraklion, it was part of the Rethymno district during the Ottoman period and became part of the Heraklion prefecture after 1913. Agriculture is central to village life, with olive groves, vineyards, and sheep and goat herding.
The village has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong Cretan identity expressed through dialect, music, and dance. The "Kritikos" dance is popular at festivals and weddings. Religion is also important, with the Assumption of the Virgin Mary celebrated on August 15th.
Family and community are central to village life, with strong kinship ties and shared responsibility. Traditional gender roles are observed, but there is also a strong sense of community spirit, evident in the tradition of offering labor for communal projects.
Knossos archaeological site
The Palace of Knossos, located on the Kephala hill south of Heraklion, Crete, is an important site of the ancient Minoan civilization. Occupied since around 7000 BCE during the Aceramic Neolithic period. The First Palace, built during the Middle Minoan IB-IIA period, represents a significant shift in Minoan society from a clan-based structure to a hierarchical one. This monumental building, covering nearly 10,000 square meters on the ground floor alone, served as a hub for administrative, storage, and cult activities. The First Palace also introduced innovative features like storage magazines, showcasing the society's wealth and resources. The New Palace emerged after a massive earthquake that occurred at the end of the Middle Minoan IIIA period, the palace underwent major reconstruction in the Middle Minoan IIIB period. Around 1450 BCE, widespread destruction occurred across Crete, affecting palaces and settlements. While Knossos suffered damage, it wasn't destroyed like other palaces. This period saw the introduction of Linear B, an early form of Greek script used by the Mycenaeans, suggesting their presence at Knossos. The final destruction of the palace, possibly in Late Minoan IIIA2 (1325-1300 BCE), left it deserted, but the town continued to exist. Knossos continued to be inhabited during the Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods. Two basilicas from the First Byzantine period indicate that the city was still active during this time. Knossos appears to have followed the fate of other urban centers in Crete and declined early.